Nordic ground handling provider Aviator has presented a refined long-term strategy aimed at strengthening its core capabilities, deepening airline partnerships, and improving employee engagement. The approach places operational excellence and workforce development at the centre of the company’s plans, with safety, digitalisation, sustainability, and continuous improvement identified as key priorities.

Aviator has developed a six-point strategy designed to reinforce its core business over the coming years. The focus is on delivering consistent, industry-leading service, building long-term customer trust, and attracting and retaining skilled personnel. In a changing market environment, the company aims to be recognised as a dependable partner that delivers high value for both airlines and employees.

With Europe’s ground handling market forecast to nearly double by 2034, Aviator believes that companies able to demonstrate strong operational performance and trusted relationships will be best positioned to compete for future contracts. The elements highlighted in the company’s updated strategy – including safety, service quality, and robust technology – are increasingly decisive factors across the sector.

Currently operating at 15 stations with more than 3,500 employees and handling over 400,000 aircraft movements each year, Aviator has an established presence across the Nordic region. Backed by Avia Solutions Group, and working with major airline customers such as SAS, Finnair, Norwegian, Lufthansa Group, Ryanair, Air France/KLM, and Wizz Air, the company is building on a solid operational foundation while preparing for growth across the Nordics and Europe.

Focus on employees and airline partnerships

A central pillar of Aviator’s strategy is to position the company as a preferred choice for both employees and airline partners. The people-first model is intended to give teams at each airport greater autonomy, enabling frontline employees to make decisions that prioritise safety and operational effectiveness. This approach is designed to support service quality while making travel safer and more efficient for passengers.

New leadership programmes and clearer career pathways form part of the strategy to support employee development and long-term engagement. According to Jo Alex Tanem, Chief Executive Officer of Aviator, employee well-being and an inclusive workplace culture are fundamental to the company’s operational objectives.

“Our emphasis on caring for employees’ well-being and fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace culture is at the heart of Aviator’s commitment to safety, operational excellence, and human-centric values,” Tanem says. He adds that empowering employees also strengthens service quality and builds long-term trust with customers and partners.

Recruitment processes are also being streamlined, with shorter hiring timelines and simplified procedures. Regular employee surveys and cooperation with the European Works Council are intended to further support inclusion, collaboration, and sustained engagement. Aviator has confirmed that its established cooperation with union representatives will continue to underpin its approach to constructive dialogue across all markets.

Digital tools and sustainability

Continuous improvement is described as an integral part of Aviator’s organisational culture. To support this, the company is investing in digital tools that improve measurement, benchmarking, and operational transparency. New dashboards and mobile applications are being introduced to provide employees with real-time operational data, supporting informed decision-making on the ground.

Sustainability is another core element of the strategy. In response to tightening apron emissions requirements across Europe, Aviator has set a target to achieve carbon-neutral ground handling operations in the Nordics by 2030, powered by 100% renewable energy. The company plans to reduce emissions from its own operations by at least 60% from a 2025 baseline, primarily through increased use of electric and HVO100-fuelled ground support equipment, green electricity, and more efficient resource use. Any remaining emissions are to be addressed through independently verified offsetting.

“A safer, more digital, and more sustainable operation puts us in a strong position to support both our people and our customers,” Tanem says, noting that these measures are intended to strengthen trust and operational capability as the industry evolves.

About Aviator

Aviator is the largest independent ground handling company in the Nordic region, operating at 15 airports from Copenhagen to Tromsø. Its services include passenger and baggage handling, de-icing, cargo, lounge operations, and PRM services.

The company forms part of Avia Solutions Group, which provides a wide range of aviation services worldwide, including ACMI, MRO, training, and ground handling, supported by a global workforce of aviation professionals.